Kia

Korea’s oldest car manufacturer was established in 1944 as Kyungsung Precision Industry, initially producing bicycles – first as parts then as complete products. From producing Korea’s first bicycle, the company –trading as Kia from 1952 – compiled a number of other mobility milestones in Korea. The first car didn’t arrive until 1974, though its production capabilities quickly drew the attention of Peugeot and Fiat – to build the 504 and 132, respectively. Australia’s first taste of a Kia-made model was the Mazda 121 in 1987, followed by the (related) Ford Festiva. Kia entered Australia properly in 1997 with models including the popular Sportage. Hyundai bought a majority stake in its compatriot the same year during the Asian financial crisis, and the two brands continue to share significant resources for immense economies of scale. Kia vehicles are renowned for value – and Kia introduced a seven-year warranty locally in 2014 – though the company’s models also adopted greater visual appeal after Peter Schreyer was appointed chief designer in 2006.